Is Toxic Air and Trash Turning India's Big Cities Unlivable?

The urban decay evident in cities like Jaipur, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi starkly contrasts India's rapid economic growth, highlighting the challenges of urban governance and infrastructure management. Despite significant investments in infrastructure, many Indian cities are struggling with issues such as traffic congestion, pollution, and inadequate sanitation. This situation prompts questions about the effectiveness of governance models and the ability of local authorities to address these pressing urban challenges.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As urbanisation accelerates in India, the realities of living in cities like Jaipur and Bengaluru are becoming increasingly difficult. The juxtaposition of heritage and modernity is evident, yet cities are plagued by pollution, inadequate waste management, and a lack of effective governance. Public frustration has reached a tipping point, as citizens voice their grievances over deteriorating infrastructure and living conditions. Protests against poor urban management highlight a growing discontent among residents, demanding accountability and improvements in their urban environments.

Key takeaways

Urban decay in Indian cities contrasts sharply with economic growth.
Local governance structures are weak, hindering effective urban management.
Public protests are emerging as citizens demand better living conditions.
Data on urbanisation is outdated, complicating planning efforts.
Successful urban transformations have been exceptions rather than the rule.

Timeline: how we got here

The trajectory of urbanisation and governance in India has evolved significantly over the decades:

1960: Approximately 70 million Indians lived in urban areas.
1992: The 74th amendment of the Constitution aimed to decentralise urban governance.
2021: An estimated half a billion Indians, or nearly 40% of the population, now reside in urban settings.
2026: The next census is scheduled, expected to provide updated data on urbanisation.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent public protests in cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai signal an escalation in citizen frustration regarding urban living conditions. These protests reflect a broader trend of dissatisfaction with local governance and infrastructure inadequacies.

What was already established

The historical challenges of urban governance in India have been well-documented, with weak local governance structures being a persistent issue. The decentralisation efforts initiated in the 1990s have not been fully realised, contributing to the ongoing urban crises in several cities.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK readers, the situation in Indian cities may resonate with concerns over urban living conditions in their own cities. Issues such as pollution, waste management, and traffic congestion are not unique to India, and understanding these challenges can inform discussions about urban policy and governance in the UK.

Businesses and jobs

The inefficiencies in urban management can impact businesses, especially in sectors reliant on logistics and transportation. Poor infrastructure can lead to increased costs and delays, which may affect investment decisions and job creation in the affected regions.

Policy and regulation

The experiences of Indian cities can provide valuable lessons for UK policymakers regarding urban planning and governance. The importance of effective local governance structures and the need for robust data collection and analysis are crucial for addressing urban challenges effectively.

Numbers that matter

40%: Proportion of India's population living in urban areas as of 2023.
70 million: Urban population in India in 1960.
500 million: Estimated urban population in India today.
15 years: Time since India's last census, causing data challenges.
1992: Year the 74th amendment aimed to decentralise urban governance.

Definitions and jargon buster

74th Amendment: A constitutional amendment in India aimed at decentralising urban governance by granting constitutional status to local bodies.
Urbanisation: The process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in urban areas.
Local governance: The administration of specific localities, typically involving municipal councils or bodies.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Immediate focus should be on public awareness and engagement in urban planning processes. Citizens can advocate for local governance reforms and better resource allocation.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Efforts should be made to implement the provisions of the 74th amendment fully, empowering local bodies to address urban issues effectively. This requires political will and public support.

Signals to watch

Upcoming local elections and governance reforms.
Public responses to urban infrastructure projects and policies.
Changes in public health indicators related to urban living conditions.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with local governance initiatives and provide feedback on urban planning.
Stay informed about urban issues and support local advocacy groups.
Participate in community clean-up and awareness campaigns.

Don’t

Ignore the importance of local governance in addressing urban challenges.
Assume that economic growth will automatically translate into better living conditions.
Neglect the value of data and research in informing urban policies.

Checklist

Review local governance structures and understand their powers.
Identify key urban issues affecting your community.
Research successful urban reform examples from other countries.
Engage in discussions about urban policy with local representatives.
Stay updated on census data and its implications for urban planning.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The ongoing challenges of urban governance in India cannot be overstated, particularly given the lack of updated census data and the slow progress in implementing constitutional provisions. The reliance on individual bureaucratic successes rather than systemic changes poses risks for sustainable urban development. Moreover, public apathy towards urban issues may hinder necessary reforms, making it crucial to foster civic engagement and awareness.

Bottom line

The juxtaposition of India's rapid economic growth against the backdrop of urban decay in cities like Jaipur and Bengaluru highlights significant governance challenges. The need for effective local governance, comprehensive data, and public engagement is paramount for transforming the urban landscape. With concerted efforts, there is potential for revitalising India's cities and improving the quality of life for millions.

FAQs

Why are Indian cities becoming increasingly unliveable?

Indian cities face severe urban decay, marked by traffic congestion, pollution, and inadequate sanitation. Weak local governance structures hinder effective management, despite rapid economic growth.

What role does local governance play in urban management?

Local governance is crucial for addressing urban challenges, as it involves the administration of municipal bodies that can implement policies and manage resources effectively.

How can citizens contribute to improving urban living conditions?

Citizens can engage with local governance, advocate for reforms, participate in community initiatives, and stay informed about urban issues to foster positive changes in their cities.